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In Japan, a ribbon-like decoration called a mizuhiki has been used when exchanging presents for ages. Mizuhiki is made from washi (traditional Japanese paper) cut into long, thin strips which have been twisted into strings. It is then stiffened by coating it with a glue made of seaweed and white clay which has been dissolved in water. It is from this process that mizuhiki gets its name: Mizu means water and hiku means to apply. Next, the mizuhiki is polished to a shine with a cotton cloth. Many different colored pieces of paper, as well as gold and silver leaf, are used to make mizuhiki. The mizuhiki from the Kaga region are known for their gorgeous designs of plum, bamboo, and pine, as well as cranes and turtles, which symbolize long life.

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